West Coast champion Jeremy McGovern has inked a new one-year deal, extending his time at the club until the end of 2026.

McGovern returned to his best in 2024, securing both a fifth All-Australian blazer and a maiden John Worsfold medal for his efforts.

The 32-year-old has been a key pillar in defence, with an extension into next season ticking into a 16th year at the Eagles, which he is "stoked" about.

"I'm obviously stoked to recommit with the club and grateful they have given me another opportunity to do what I love for another year," McGovern said.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 21: Jeremy McGovern of the Eagles celebrates the win with fans during the round five AFL match between the Carlton Blues and the West Coast Eagles at Melbourne Cricket Ground on April 21, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

"The club is in an exciting period with a talented young list, and I feel like it's part of my responsibility to help this young group on and off the field, just like I had when I first started many years ago.

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"I will always be grateful to have had some amazing senior players who helped to shape my career, and hopefully I can do the same with this young group."

McGovern has battled persistent injuries over the past four years, limiting him to 46 games and leaving a gaping hole in West Coast's defence.

However, he has seemingly put those issues behind him, returning to his intercepting best.

And following the departure of partner-in-crime and fellow key defender Tom Barrass (Hawthorn), his significance has doubled, especially at the rebuilding club.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 18: Jeremy McGovern of the Eagles is assisted off the field during the 2022 AFL Round 14 match between the West Coast Eagles and the Geelong Cats at Optus Stadium on June 18, 2022 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Will Russell/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"Jeremy is a legacy player at our club and an outstanding leader of our developing playing group on and off the field," GM of Football Gavin Bell said.

"It was terrific to see him get back to his best last year and he has set himself up for another quality season with an impressive pre-season to date.

"He is highly motivated to help guide our playing squad into our next chapter, and we're delighted he has extended his contract for another year."

Entering the 2025 campaign, the 2018 premiership player is only nine appearances away fromย the 200-game milestone.

West Coast will face Richmond in a pre-season match simulation on Monday, February 17 at Mineral Resources Park.

That will be followed up with a clash against North Melbourne in the AAMI Community Series, to be played at Hands Oval in Bunbury on Saturday, March 1 at 3:10 pm.

This is all in preparation for Round 1 of the 2025 season, with the Eagles hosting Gold Coast on March 16 at Optus Stadium.